Obituary of Lillian Irene Cockburn

Lillian Irene Cockburn aged 99, passed away Mother’s Day, May 14, 2023, in Saskatoon.

She was born in Denmark on July 4, 1923, to Kristina and Hans Peter Peterson, the youngest of eleven siblings. When Lillian was 4 years old, they came over from Denmark to Canada, two older brothers were already living in Canada and the family settled North of Melfort, SK where they farmed.

Lillian loved to dance and that’s where she met the love of her life at Art Academy, dancing on a Saturday night. There was a lineup to dance with this blonde bombshell, from across the floor, George put up two fingers for the next 2 dances and the rest is history.

She worked at Sears and loved her home in Montgomery. Lillian enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, watching the Blue Jays and Oilers, and always found time to make Sunday suppers for the family. We miss those days. Lillian was all about family and made sure she and George went to watch all the grandkids play sports. Saturday nights were spent around the family dining room with family, friends and playing cards.

Lillian is survived by her son Peter Cockburn (Vivian), grandchildren Clint Cockburn, Chelsey Côté (Josh), and great-grandchildren Maverick and Bennett Côté. Son-in-Law Bob Lea, grandchildren Derek Rainville (Kelly), great-grandchild Georgia, Dana Gagnon (Eric), great-grandchildren Alexis, Eleyna, and Everly. Lynzee (Terry) Klippenstein, Jake (Melissa) Klippenstein, children Penelope, Theodore, and Ophelia. Nikita Klippenstein (Kyle Moore). Step grandchildren Tim, Tracey, and Cindy. As well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Lillian was predeceased by her husband George Cockburn, daughter Diane Lea, brothers Richard, Aksel, Burger, Aage, Thorvald, Lynge, Henry, Einar, her two sisters Ella and Dinna as well as her previous son-in-law Albert Rainville.

There will be a private family service Thursday, May 18, 2023.